The world of stamp collecting is filled with fascinating details, and the US #25171991 Flower stamp is no exception. Often referred to as the “F” stamp, this seemingly simple definitive stamp holds a story about postal rate changes and clever design solutions. But what exactly does “29c Is What F” mean in the context of this stamp? Let’s delve into the details of this piece of postal history.
The Flower stamp, officially issued on January 22, 1991, is valued at 29 cents – the then-current rate for First-Class mail. This value is clearly printed on the stamp, but you won’t find the number “29” anywhere on the stamp design itself. Instead, you’ll notice a prominent letter “F”. This is where the “29c is what f” puzzle begins to unravel.
To understand the “F”, we need to look at the history of US postage rate changes. Whenever the postal service adjusted rates, especially for First-Class mail, they often introduced “rate change stamps.” Starting in 1978, the United States Postal Service (USPS) adopted a clever system: using letters of the alphabet to denote these new rates. The “F” stamp was the sixth in this alphabetical sequence. Therefore, “F” on this stamp simply signified the First-Class mail rate at the time of its issue, which was 29 cents. So, “29c is what f” translates to “29 cents is represented by the letter F” on this particular series of US postage stamps.
The reason for this system was practical. The USPS needed stamps ready to go as soon as a rate change took effect. Designing, printing, and distributing new stamps with specific denominations took time. The letter system allowed them to pre-produce stamps marked with a letter, which could then be announced as representing the new rate when the change occurred. This ensured a smooth transition and avoided any disruption in mail service.
The design of the Flower stamp itself is elegant in its simplicity. Created by Wallace Marosek, then a student at Yale University School of Art and Architecture, it features a vibrant red tulip with a single green leaf against a clean white background. Marosek originally created this artwork for a school project, and it was chosen for its aesthetically pleasing and easily recognizable design. The choice of a tulip, beginning with the letter “F”, was also a deliberate and fitting choice to match the stamp’s letter designation.
Interestingly, the Flower “F” stamp was printed by three different companies using slightly different methods and formats. The United States Bank Note Corporation printed the most common sheet stamps in panes of 100. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing produced the same design in coils and booklets, while KCS Industries Inc. also printed booklets. Collectors can often distinguish between these printings by subtle variations, such as the lightness of the tulip and leaf colors, adding another layer of interest for philatelists.
The “F” Flower stamp is a definitive stamp, meaning it was designed for everyday postage needs and intended for long-term use. A staggering 1.7 billion of these stamps were issued, highlighting their crucial role in meeting postal demands during the 1991 rate change. Despite its mass production, the “F” stamp remains a notable example of how the USPS addressed rate changes efficiently and with a touch of design ingenuity.
In conclusion, the question “29c is what f?” is answered by understanding the context of US postage history and the USPS’s system of using letters to denote rate changes. The Flower “F” stamp, with its beautiful tulip design, is more than just a 29-cent stamp; it’s a symbol of postal innovation and a collectible piece of American history. For stamp enthusiasts and those curious about postal workings, the “F” stamp offers a glimpse into the practical and sometimes creative solutions employed by the postal service.
